Preparing for Your Session

Everything You Need to Know

Preparing the Kids (and Grown-Ups!)

The key to a happy session is happy people. Make sure everyone has had a good meal or snack before we start. If your session is around naptime, try to adjust accordingly so little ones are well-rested. Most importantly, talk about the session as a fun family outing—like going to the park or the beach—not as something where they need to be on their best behavior. When parents are relaxed, kids are relaxed.

Location & Timing

Together, we'll choose the perfect backdrop for your family's story. Whether it's the personal, intimate feel of your own home or an outdoor location that fits your family's personality, the key is finding a place where you can be comfortable. The beautiful, soft light you see in my portfolio is intentional. For outdoor sessions, we'll schedule our time for the one to two hours before sunset, during the "golden hour," to get that magical glow. If we're shooting in your home, we'll aim for late morning when natural light is typically at its brightest.

What Our Hour Together Will Look Like

My sessions are intentionally relaxed and efficient, rarely lasting more than an hour. Don't worry, this is more than enough time to capture a diverse and beautiful gallery of images. My approach is to gently guide rather than rigidly pose. I'll give you prompts and actions that encourage natural interaction, and then step back to capture the real smiles, laughs, and quiet moments that unfold. The goal is to capture the true essence of your family's connection.

A Special Note on Kids

Please, release yourself from the pressure of wanting "perfectly behaved" children. My sessions are designed for kids to be kids! It's okay if they run, play, and have bursts of energy. In fact, that's where the magic often happens. The best way to prepare them is to talk about our session as a fun activity, letting them know a friend is coming to take some photos while you play together. Just make sure they are well-rested and have had a snack beforehand, and we'll be set for success.

What to Bring

Pack a small bag with the essentials: water, non-messy snacks (think crackers or fruit snacks, not chocolate!), and any necessary supplies like diapers or wipes. While I don't typically use props, if your child has a special blanket or a timeless wooden toy that is part of your family story, feel free to bring it. These personal items can add a beautiful, sentimental layer to your photos.

A Note on Punctuality

Because our session time is scheduled around the best possible light, it's important that we start on time. Please plan ahead for any potential traffic or parking challenges, as that beautiful golden light waits for no one!

A Simple Timeline

• One Week Before: finalize your outfits (check out the Style Guide!) and confirm the session time and location with me.
• The Day Before: pack your session bag and lay out everyone's clothes. Getting this done early prevents last-minute stress.
• The Day Of: follow your getting-ready routine with a head start, get dressed without rushing, and plan to leave a little early. The most important thing you can bring to our session is a positive, ready-to-play attitude.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. And READ my Style Guide if you're thinking about what to wear.

That's it! Your only job is to connect with each other. I am so excited to capture your family's unique story.